Grand-Lieu, a mystery lake…
This vast, protected sanctuary is also the largest natural lake in France in winter! In the middle of a vast marsh overgrown with vegetation it shelters more than 200 species of birds, including herons and rarer species such as spoonbills.
Willow and alder forests, reed-beds and shrubs surround the lake while the water-meadows are also covered with a great variety of plants. In spring the landscape is worthy of a Monet painting: the surface of the lake is covered with white and yellow water-lilies!
Only professional fishermen are allowed to sail on the lake, which is a natural conservation area of 2,700 hectares. From their flat-bottomed boats, known as plates, they catch eels to tickle your taste buds!
The Passay Maison du Pêcheur (Fisherman's House)
If you'd like to find out all about Grand-Lieu lake, then visit the Passay Fisherman's House (Maison du Pêcheur) at La Chevrolière. As well as its look-out post, the Maison du Pêcheur offers the chance to get to know the large birds that inhabit the lake. Then the ecomuseum takes you below the lake's waters to tell you about the history and techniques of the fishermen of the village.
Maison du Pêcheur de Passay
16 rue Yves Brisson, 44118 La Chevrolière
Tel: +33 (0)2 40 31 36 46
The Châteaubriant and Ancenis areas are studded with lakes, the perfect habitat for many species of birds, and they provide an opportunity to relax at the water's edge!
Etang de la Provostière / Riaillé
In the north of the Department, the lake known as the Etang de la Provostière acts as a huge water reserve and, together with the Etang de Vioreau, feeds the Nantes-Brest Canal. These typically fascinating inland waters are havens for a great variety of animal and plant species, a natural abundance that is made even more pleasing by the peace and tranquillity of the site throughout the year.
Discovery circuit of the Étang de la Provostière (Riaillé)
Set out to explore this site which, in the past, provided the power for the forges. Discover the rich variety of flora and fauna along a 5.5 kilometre discovery trail. A bird-watching hide (closed during high water periods) allows you to melt into the background!
Tourist Offices for the Ancenis and Châteaubriant areas
Etang de Gruellau / Tréffieux
This shallow lake is an essential habitat for birds in winter and an important gathering place. Great crested grebes, teal, herons, great egrets and widgeon are frequent visitors and, every evening in winter, there are many gulls (black-headed and herring gulls) which turn up in search of a little peace and quiet in the heart of the lake.
Etang de Clégreux / Vay
This wild and well-preserved lake belongs to the Department's Conseil Général (General Council) and is an ideal place for bird-watching. You may even see a bittern from dyke in January.
From June to September there is a guide on site to help you in your bird-watching.
Be careful!
The wealth of the natural areas in Loire-Atlantique are easily damaged!To help preserve this heritage, please follow these few words of advice:
- keep these places clean and tidy by not leaving litter in the countryside or on roads,
- respect living things (flora and fauna): don't pick things at random; respect the peace – and especially the quiet – of the animals by keeping dogs on a lead,
- reduce car usage by taking advantage of the public transport networks or by choosing environmentally-friendly modes of transport,
- respect work places: the natural wealth of the environment has favoured the growth of various activities (salt works, shellfish growing, vineyards, etc.). Please do not trespass on working areas.
And, as a general rule, opt for guided tours of nature areas: you are sure to discover more and enjoy your visit!
